Hiking with Dogs

I absolutely love hiking with my dogs. They keep me company while I'm out alone and it's a comfort. It also strengthens my bond with them. I'm constantly learning more about them every time and learning about their capabilities. Hiking with dogs does come with some different rules and some added stress and worries. As long as you are prepared, it is totally worth it.

Choosing the Right Trail

When planning a hiking trip with your dog, the first step is to choose a suitable trail. It is essential to select a path that matches your dog’s fitness level and experience. Some trails may be too strenuous for certain breeds, especially those that are small, elderly, or not accustomed to long walks. Look for dog-friendly trails that are well-marked and have varying terrain to keep things interesting for your furry friend. Websites and apps (AllTrails App, Bruce Trail App) dedicated to hiking often provide information about trail difficulty, elevation, and whether dogs are allowed.

When Jared and I were choosing which breed of dog we wanted to fit in to our lifestyle. I am so happy and proud that we chose the Siberian Husky. Their gene makeup is similar to mine as in they never stop. They keep going until the end is reached and they are so much more capable than most humans would expect.

Preparation is Key

Before heading out, prepare adequately for the hike. Make sure your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations and flea and tick prevention, as these pests can be more prevalent in wooded areas. It's a good idea is to pack a dog essentials such as water, a collapsible bowl, some dog food or treats, waste bags, and a first-aid kit specifically for pets. Hydration is crucial, so ensure you have enough water for both you and your dog, especially on warm days. Read the full blog post about safety hiking here: Safety Hiking Gear.

Be aware of your surroundings and watch for signs of fatigue in your dog. If your dog appears tired, overheated, or distressed, take a break in the shade or head back to the trailhead. Additionally, it’s wise to familiarize yourself with the local wildlife and plants that could pose a threat to your dog, such as poison ivy or aggressive animals.

Training and Behaviour

Training plays a crucial role in ensuring a successful hike with your dog. Commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “come” can be invaluable in keeping your dog safe and under control. If your dog is prone to distractions, consider practicing recall in a controlled environment before hitting the trail. Socialization is also important; if your dog is not well-adjusted to other dogs or people, choose less crowded trails to avoid stress for both your pet and yourself.

Oliver and Mia have learned many new hiking commands, specifically when descending hills. I use the word "gentle" and they understand that it means they must go slow in order for everyone's safety. There have also been times where we are descending an extremely steep hill where Jared will descend first. I will stay at the top with the dogs and release them one at a time for them to descend to where Jared is. This can take a well trained dog to ensure they listen and do as commanded. I think sometimes it's safer for everyone to let them off leash in certain situations.

Health Benefits

 Regular hiking can lead to numerous health benefits for both dogs and their owners. For dogs, consistent exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, supports cardiovascular health, and can even improve joint mobility. For owners, the physical activity of hiking can lead to weight loss, improved mood, and decreased risk of chronic diseases. Additionally, spending time outdoors has been linked to mental health benefits, such as reduced anxiety and depression, making hiking with dogs a holistic approach to improving health and well-being.

 Taking dogs on hikes exposes them to the beauty and diversity of nature. This exposure is beneficial for their overall well-being, as it allows them to experience different environments, from lush forests to rocky mountains. Nature has a calming effect on both dogs and humans, reducing stress and promoting relaxation. The sights and sounds of the great outdoors can be invigorating, making hikes a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

 Hiking is not just a physical activity; it also offers significant mental stimulation for dogs. The natural environment is filled with new scents, sounds, and sights that can intrigue a dog and keep its mind engaged. This sensory stimulation is essential for a dog's mental health, as it helps to prevent anxiety and boredom. Exploring different trails can also introduce dogs to various terrains, which can enhance their adaptability and confidence. For owners, the experience can be equally stimulating, as they encounter new landscapes, wildlife, and the beauty of nature.

Great Sense of Direction

One of the most remarkable aspects of hiking with dogs is the ease with which you can navigate the trails. Unlike when hiking alone or with other humans, where one must constantly pay attention to trail markers and signs, having dogs by your side brings a different dynamic to the experience. While this may not hold true for every dog, my two pups have shown an impressive ability to instinctively know where the trail leads. They have rarely led me astray, and I often find myself marveling at their instincts. I suspect that their keen sense of smell plays a significant role in this. Dogs have an extraordinary olfactory system, which allows them to pick up the scents left behind by other hikers, wildlife, and the natural environment. This ability might explain why they seem to effortlessly follow the path. I can’t count the number of times my dogs have confidently led me in the right direction, especially when I’ve lost sight of the markers or when the trail becomes less defined. There are moments on the trail when the path may disappear entirely, leaving you in a bit of a quandary. In such instances, it’s easy to feel disoriented and unsure of where to go next. However, I’ve learned to trust my dogs’ instincts during these times. They seem to have an innate ability to sense the direction we need to head in, and I’ve found that following their lead often pays off. They navigate with a natural confidence that reassures me, even when I can’t see a marker in sight.

Alert Companions

One of their most notable traits is their ability to alert their owners if something unusual or unfamiliar is around. This instinct is deeply rooted in their nature, as many breeds have been historically bred for their protective qualities and keen senses. However, the effectiveness of this trait can vary significantly from one dog to another. For instance, take my dog Mia. She embodies bravery in many aspects of her life, demonstrating a fearless spirit in her adventures and interactions. However, this same dog exhibits a surprising level of skittishness when she hears even the slightest sound.

Mia has startled herself by simply stepping on a twig while exploring. The sudden noise sends her into a crouching position, her body tensed and ready to flee at a moment's notice. It’s almost comical to witness, yet it also highlights her sensitive nature. One particularly memorable incident involved a grouse that unexpectedly took flight. The sudden movement and noise caused Mia to bolt in the opposite direction. In these moments, it becomes painfully clear that while she has the heart of a protector, her instincts lead her to be more of a flight risk than a steadfast defender.

In contrast, Oliver, possesses a more composed demeanour when it comes to potential threats. His alertness is often more reliable, and he seems to have a better grasp of what constitutes a real danger. It’s amusing, though, to observe the dynamics between Mia and Oliver when they both enter "alert mode." I've learned to interpret their behaviour as an indication of the presence of smaller creatures, such as chipmunks or squirrels, rather than any significant threat. In fact, it’s quite rare for them to react to larger animals, which tend to move with a stealth that often goes unnoticed by the dogs. The irony lies in the fact that while larger animals can pose a more considerable threat, they are often quieter.

The one day when we were coming up to a porcupine, Oliver started to lose his mind. I genuinely thought something was wrong with him, perhaps he had seen something alarming or was feeling unwell. Once the porcupine came into my view, however, I quickly realized why he was crying out in distress. The sight of the spiny creature, with its quills bristling, was clearly overwhelming for him. Now I understand what those cries mean; they are a mix of fear, excitement, and a strong instinct to approach the unfamiliar animal. I need to be more alert in those times, as it’s crucial to interpret his signals correctly to ensure both his safety and my own. Read the full story here: Beaver Valley and Hiking with a Porcupine.  Thank god he was on a leash because I guarantee he would have rushed forward to say hello, which would have left me in quite the predicament. The thought of him getting too close to the porcupine and suffering a painful encounter with its quills is something I shudder to imagine.

Dogs can also be a disservice when it comes to encounters with bears, a fact that many dog owners may not fully appreciate. While it is a common belief that dogs can serve as effective deterrents to wildlife, including bears, the reality is often much more complex and potentially dangerous. For instance, dogs can provoke bears, leading to aggressive behaviour. When a dog barks or charges at a bear, it may trigger the bear's instinct to defend itself or its territory. This can escalate into a dangerous situation for both the dog and its owner, as a bear may feel threatened and react in a way that could lead to a confrontation. Please read more about that in this post: Black Bear Safety when Hiking with Dogs. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for ensuring the safety of both dogs and their owners in bear country.

Etiquette

When approaching hikers on the trail, I make it a point to move myself and my dogs to the side to allow them to pass comfortably. This practice is especially important on the Bruce Trail, which can be incredibly narrow at times, creating a challenging environment for hikers to navigate.

Many hikers have varying degrees of comfort when it comes to encountering dogs on the trail. Some individuals may have had negative experiences in the past, while others simply prefer to keep a safe distance from unfamiliar animals. Understanding this, I strive to be respectful of their space and feelings by pulling my dogs off to the side, ensuring that the hikers can pass by without any concerns. This considerate gesture not only promotes a positive atmosphere on the trail but also fosters a sense of community among outdoor enthusiasts.

I have been fortunate enough to receive numerous expressions of gratitude from hikers who appreciate my efforts to manage my dogs appropriately. For instance, one woman shared a harrowing story of being attacked by a dog that was off-leash during one of her previous hikes. She was particularly thankful that I had my dogs leashed, which is, of course, the rule on the trail, and for my decision to step aside. Such interactions underscore the importance of leash laws and the need for dog owners to be vigilant and responsible while sharing public spaces with others.

Additionally, I often receive compliments about how well-behaved my dogs, Oliver and Mia, are when we step aside. They sit patiently, waiting for the hikers to pass, which not only showcases their training but also reflects positively on the effort I've put into their obedience. Starting this practice with them did take some time and consistency; however, once they learned what to expect, they adapted remarkably well. The more they exhibit good behavior, the more attention they receive from passersby, which serves as a reward for them. This positive reinforcement encourages them to continue behaving well while we are on the trail.

My approach to sharing the trail with hikers is rooted in respect and consideration. By being proactive in managing my dogs and ensuring a smooth passage for others, I contribute to a more enjoyable hiking experience for everyone involved. This practice not only helps to mitigate potential conflicts but also promotes a culture of kindness and understanding among all who venture out into nature.

Safety Considerations

 Safety should always be a priority when hiking with your dog. Keep your dog on a leash to prevent them from wandering off or encountering wildlife.

Most trails have guidelines about leashing your dog. Not going to lie, there have been times years ago where I have not obeyed these rules. Not anymore though! The more you hike the more you realize that keeping them on a leash is for their own safety. We have met so many animals on our hikes, whether they were porcupines or deer etc. Not all dogs are avid hunters, like my huskies, however the last thing I want is to be halfway through a long trail and have my dogs interact with a porcupine. Or chase an animal and forget where they are etc. Having your dog leashed means that you have control over whether they chase animals or interact with them.

My Oliver also loves going to cliffs edges. I can't imagine if he were to lose his balance on the edge or perhaps in the winter he thinks he is on solid snow but the snow has drifted over the rocks and gives out. Again, keeping him leashed is for his safety.

I also hate when other dogs approach us off leash, it creates a dangerous situation. You never know if dogs will like each other. yes! even "my dog is friendly" ones, I know all you dog owners can picture these dog owners that love to holler that out as if it makes it ok. Having your dog leashed means that you have control over their actions and can prohibit them from meeting other dogs.

Here you can see my waist belt that the leashes attach to so that I don't always have to hold the leashes themselves.

If you are going on a long hike, sometimes it's annoying to hold a leash the entire time, sometimes you need both of your hands. You can find leashes that can go across your body or waist leashes so that you don't need to physically hold the leash but obviously still have control over them.

Leashing your dog isn't optional. It is literally the law which can be enforced with fines. Just please leash your dog, trust me they can still enjoy the hike and stop and sniff as much as they want. If you want your dog off leash then go ahead and find off leash areas/parks, theres usually at least one in towns/citites. I think sometimes people need to reframe the idea of leashes. I feel like a lot of people looks at leashes as holding their dogs back but please look at it as being a safety feature because at the end of the day you are out in nature and I'm sure you want your entire family to return home that night unharmed.

Post-Hike Care

 After a day of hiking, it’s important to give your dog proper care. Check their paws for any cuts or abrasions, especially if they walked on rough terrain. A gentle wash with clean water can help remove dirt and debris. Ensure they have access to fresh water and food to replenish their energy. Additionally, keeping an eye on their behaviour in the following days can help catch any signs of soreness or discomfort.

Conclusion

 Hiking with dogs can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, providing both physical exercise and mental stimulation for your pet. By taking the time to prepare, prioritize safety, and ensure your dog is well-trained and comfortable, you can create memorable adventures that you and your furry friend will cherish for years to come. With the right approach, hiking can become a beloved routine that fosters a deeper connection between you and your canine companion while exploring the beauty of nature together.

Thanks,

Kendal

Get Your Furry Friend out Hiking with You!